The IT Culture in Sri Lanka
Why Isn't Sri Lanka Known for IT as Much as Its Regional Counterparts?
Is Sri Lanka a Reliable IT Partner?
Cost-effective and Flexible Solutions
Absolutely. Sri Lanka is home to many IT professionals with proven track records in delivering high-quality projects for various industries worldwide. Many Sri Lanka companies have positioned Sri Lanka firmly on the IT map, successfully working on international projects and partnerships. These companies showcase the country’s ability to meet global IT demands with professionalism, efficiency, and cultural understanding. Some of these include:
- WSO2: Founded in 2005 by Dr. Sanjiva Weerawarana, WSO2 has grown into a global provider of open-source integration and API management solutions and was recently bought over by EQT- Europe’s largest VC.
- MillenniumIT: Established in 1996, MillenniumIT became known for its capital market software and solutions. In 2009, it was acquired by the London Stock Exchange Group (LSEG) and now operates as LSEG Technology, providing trading, surveillance, and clearing technology for global exchanges.
- Virtusa: Founded by Kris Canekeratne in Sri Lanka, Virtusa started as an IT services company and later expanded its operations to the United States, India, Europe, and other regions. Today, it is a globally recognised IT services provider specialising in digital engineering and IT consulting. It is presently listed on NASDAQ.
- Sysco LABS: A subsidiary of Sysco Corporation, the world’s largest food service company, Sysco LABS was initially founded as a Sri Lankan startup named Leapset. Sysco Corporation acquired and rebranded it to provide technology solutions for the food and beverage industry.
What Makes Sri Lanka an Attractive IT Partner?
- Education: Sri Lanka’s IT professionals are often educated to European standards and beyond, with many gaining experience and qualifications abroad. This exposure ensures they can meet the expectations of international clients, bringing both technical expertise and a deep understanding of diverse markets.
- Pricing & Value: Sri Lanka offers competitive pricing without compromising quality. Skilled IT professionals provide services at a fraction of the cost in Western countries, offering tremendous value for companies looking for high-quality, cost-effective solutions.
- Professionalism to European Standards: Sri Lankan IT professionals uphold high standards, aligning with European quality and service expectations. When crises or problems arise, companies here have established risk mitigation strategies and are known for their resilience and problem-solving capabilities.
- National Backing—SLASSCOM: The Sri Lanka Association of Software and Service Companies (SLASSCOM) provides national backing, offering support and promoting the country’s IT sector globally. This organisation upholds industry standards and promotes the country’s reputation as a reliable IT hub.
- Communication & Language Skills: English is widely spoken and the primary business language in Sri Lanka. IT professionals are proficient in English, making collaboration smooth and effective for clients from Europe and beyond.
Working with Sri Lanka: Fun & Professional
What sets Sri Lanka apart is the balance between professionalism and the relaxed island lifestyle. The country’s culture is deeply rooted in hospitality, friendliness, and a genuine willingness to collaborate; this makes working with Sri Lankan professionals not just productive but enjoyable. The island’s work culture emphasises a healthy work-life balance, which fuels creativity and innovation.
Despite the laid-back island vibe, Sri Lankan professionals maintain dedication and seriousness in their work that matches European standards. This unique blend of island charm and professional drive makes Sri Lanka an increasingly attractive destination for companies seeking a reliable and enjoyable working partnership.
Language & Communication
The communication gap with Sri Lankan IT professionals is minimal. Thanks to the country’s high literacy rate and emphasis on English in education, most professionals are fluent in English, often with an impressive grasp of technical and business language. This proficiency ensures that projects progress smoothly, with little room for misunderstandings.
Why Choose Resource Connect Services as Your Partner in Europe?
RCS bridges European businesses and Sri Lanka’s growing IT sector, given that it is uniquely suited to meet European market demands. As a European company with a Sri Lankan heritage, we effectively mediate between our clients and Sri Lankan partners, ensuring the best fit for every project. Our deep expertise in sourcing top Sri Lankan IT talent and understanding European business needs make us the ideal partner for quality and value. Here’s why RCS stands out:
1. Tailored Solutions for the European Market
- Understanding Cultural Fit: We recognise the importance of technical skills and cultural compatibility. By carefully selecting professionals who match your company’s ethos and communication style, we facilitate seamless collaboration and integration within your teams.
- Language Considerations: While European companies often prefer Native language-speaking professionals, we mitigate this concern by selecting English-proficient Sri Lankan talent accustomed to working with international clients, ensuring clear communication and project success.
2. Access to a Reliable, High-Calibre Talent Pool
- Sri Lanka is an emerging IT hub with a pool of highly skilled professionals experienced in global projects. Unlike the common misconception of equating Sri Lankan IT talent with our regional market’s stereotypes, our resources exhibit high professionalism, robust technical knowledge, and innovative thinking.
- We provide access to mid-level and senior IT professionals with a proven track record, offering a more reliable and flexible alternative than the fiercely competitive European IT job market.
3. Cost-effective and Flexible Resourcing
- European companies often overlook the option of leasing IT resources directly from companies like ours. RCS offers flexible resourcing models, providing you with dedicated teams or individual experts without the overhead costs and hiring complications. This flexibility allows you to scale up or down as needed, optimising performance and budget.
4. Facilitated Onsite Visits and Collaboration
- To bridge the gap between Europe and Sri Lanka, we encourage potential clients to visit our facilities in Sri Lanka. We care for all logistics, ensuring you experience the vibrant IT culture and professionalism firsthand. Witnessing the island’s blend of relaxed lifestyle and dedicated work ethic provides valuable insight into the advantages of collaborating with Sri Lankan IT talent.
5. Mitigating European Market Challenges
- Promoting Sri Lanka as an IT Hub: Many European companies are unaware of Sri Lanka’s thriving IT sector. RCS is dedicated to educating the market about Sri Lanka’s capabilities and actively promoting its talent and expertise to build European trust and recognition.
- Strategic Approach: We work with you to develop a mid-term strategy that aligns with your business goals, addressing IT resource planning and management concerns. This strategic partnership ensures a smooth transition and continued success in outsourcing your IT needs.
- By choosing RCS, you’re not just outsourcing; you’re partnering with a company that understands the nuances of European business, cultural fit, and the value of Sri Lanka’s IT talent. We stand by our commitment to deliver tailored, reliable, and strategic IT solutions that support your business’s growth in a competitive market.
